For nearly 35 years I have had the honor of serving as head of school at two private schools, one in Los Angeles, the other in Honolulu. My time as an educator has provided me with experiences and insights that I hadn't anticipated at the beginning of my career.

Students aren't the only ones sharpening their pencils as a new school year is about to start. Those of us who advocate for policies and programs to strengthen K-12 education, are ready to do the tough work that is needed to improve our schools.

Malala's courage and strength has the power to influence others to use their voices to inspire change; we must not let it go to waste. Our world is not perfect, but our voices, like Malala's, have the power to make a change.